Caregiver Survival Tools

If you’re under stress, consider the following survival tools from Home Instead Senior Care:

Work out: Exercise should be something you like to do (walking, dancing, running, etc.). Or consider stress-management exercises, such as yoga or tai chi, teach inner balance and relaxation.

Meditate: Sit still and breathe deeply with your mind as quietas possible whenever you are feeling overwhelmed by your responsibilities as a caregiver.

Ask for help: Avoid stress by enlisting help from family members, friends, and/or a professional caregiver for assistance. There is no need to feel guilty for reaching out.

Take a break: Make arrangements for fill-in help. Take single days, a weekend or even a week’s vacation, just make sure you line up your support system so you can be confident that your loved one is safe and happy.

Eat well: Eat plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, proteins, including nuts, beans, and whole grains. Indulging in caffeine, fast food and sugar as quick pick-me-ups also produce a quick let-down.

Take care of yourself: Just like you make sure your loved one gets to the doctor regularly, make sure you get your annual check-up. Being a caregiver provides many excuses for skipping your ecessary check-ups, but you cannot and should not compromise your health.

Indulge: Treat yourself to a massage or manicure. Reward yourself for the wonderful care you are providing to your aging relative.

Support: Find a local caregiver support group. What you are feeling is normal for someone in your position. These are great places to get practical advice from people who are in your situation.

For more information, visit www.caregiverstress.com.